Facilitation Skills

Course Description: This interactive and comprehensive course focuses on developing essential facilitation skills for trainers and professionals in various contexts. The course will provide participants with a strong foundation in understanding group dynamics, fostering open communication, and managing group decision-making processes. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, participants will gain the confidence and expertise to effectively facilitate meetings, workshops, and other group interactions in diverse settings.

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define the role and key competencies of a facilitator in different contexts.

2. Apply various facilitation techniques and tools to effectively manage group dynamics, promote engagement, and encourage active participation.

3. Demonstrate active listening and questioning skills to foster open communication and create an inclusive environment.

4. Utilize problem-solving and decision-making strategies to support group consensus and manage conflict effectively.

5. Design and implement interactive sessions, workshops, and meetings that address the specific needs and goals of a group.

6. Evaluate and reflect on their facilitation practice to continuously improve and adapt to different situations.

7. Recognize the importance of cultural sensitivity, diversity, and inclusion in facilitation and apply strategies to ensure an equitable and respectful environment.

8. Implement techniques for virtual facilitation to effectively engage and manage remote participants.

This course teaches strategies for facilitation of discussion and decision-making in meetings, workshops or any other sort of community dialogue. It gives techniques for developing the vision and values that will guide the group’s work. It offers guidance on how to ensure that everyone with input contributes their ideas and suggestions; how to keep track of what has been decided and what is still under discussion; and how to allow time for creative thinking, planning and problem-solving.

The course uses principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a way of communicating that focuses on what we are observing, feeling, needing and requesting rather than on judgement or blame. It offers specific techniques for building group rapport and momentum, and for overcoming challenges such as conflict, boredom and lack of participation.

This course will be of interest to people who would like to contribute more effectively in community meetings and events, whether as a volunteer or a committee member. It will enable you to support a vision for a group’s future and help the group agree practical next steps.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Facilitation Skills

• Defining facilitation and its importance

• The role of a facilitator

• Key characteristics of an effective facilitator

• Common facilitation challenges and how to address them

Module 2: Preparation and Planning for Successful Facilitation

• Setting clear objectives and goals

• Selecting appropriate facilitation techniques

• Preparing an effective agenda

• Identifying and managing stakeholder expectations

• Logistics and resource planning

Module 3: Establishing an Inclusive and Collaborative Environment

• Building trust and rapport with participants

• Encouraging open communication and active listening

• Fostering diversity and inclusion

• Facilitating virtual and hybrid meetings

Module 4: Facilitation Techniques and Tools

• Brainstorming and idea generation

• Problem-solving and decision-making techniques

• Group dynamics and team-building activities

• Consensus-building and conflict resolution strategies

• Utilizing technology and digital tools for effective facilitation

Module 5: Managing Group Dynamics and Handling Difficult Situations

• Recognizing and addressing groupthink

• Navigating power dynamics and hidden agendas

• Managing disruptive behaviors and challenging personalities

• Adapting to unexpected changes and maintaining focus

Module 6: Evaluating and Improving Facilitation Skills

• Gathering feedback and conducting self-assessment

• Identifying areas for growth and improvement

• Developing a personal action plan for ongoing skill development

• Staying updated on industry trends and best practices

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have access to the course materials?

You can view and review the lecture materials indefinitely, like an on-demand channel.

Can I take my courses with me wherever I go?

Definitely! If you have an internet connection, courses on Udemy are available on any device at any time. If you don’t have an internet connection, some instructors also let their students download course lectures. That’s up to the instructor though, so make sure you get on their good side!